Congratulations to Doyon Foundation student Neal Charlie, of Minto, who graduated from the Law Enforcement Academy at the University of Alaska Fairbanks this spring. Charlie gave the student remarks at the graduation ceremony held May 14 in Fairbanks.

Neal Charlie graduating from the Law Enforcement Academy in May.

Charlie, the son of the late Neal and Geraldine Charlie, was a recipient of a $6,800 Doyon Foundation Law Enforcement Academy scholarship, generously funded by the Alyeska Pipeline Service Company Alaska Native Program. Charlie also received support from Doyon Universal Services (DUS), which paid the fees for items required in the Law Enforcement Academy application, including criminal history, drug test, driving record history and fingerprints.

“Doyon Foundation was there for me through the whole process of getting accepted into training,” Charlie said. “All I had to do was study after classes started. I’m very grateful to the staff. Special thanks to Doris Miller and Maurine McGinty for the effort in getting me into the training, and Doyon Security and Alyeska for the scholarship and sponsorship.”

The 13-week Law Enforcement Academy prepares graduates for careers in law enforcement and security. According to Scott Jones, director of investigations and training at DUS, there are always law enforcement and security positions available in Alaska, especially if the applicant is willing to relocate. “Within Doyon Universal Services, we endeavor to place all successful Alaska Native graduates,” he said.

Since graduating, Charlie said he plans to continue his role as a prevention officer with the State of Alaska. He also expects to pursue a position with Doyon Security, a division of DUS, in the near future.